Family Cultural Immersion in Marrakech

Oases of Calm and Treasures of the Souk

Today was a beautiful blend of tranquility and vibrant exploration in Marrakech. After several days of immersing ourselves in the bustling city, I was excited to discover some of the more serene spots it had to offer. With the family in tow, we set out to experience the magic of Marrakech's gardens and the allure of its famous carpets. It turned out to be a day of visual delights and cultural immersion, leaving us with beautiful memories and a few treasured souvenirs.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Mandala Society. This charming spot offered a range of healthy and vegan-friendly options, which was a welcome change. Nadia enjoyed a colorful smoothie, while Lukas and I opted for some traditional Moroccan tea and pastries. The rooftop terrace provided a stunning view of the Atlas Mountains, making our breakfast even more special. It was the perfect way to start a day dedicated to exploring the quieter side of Marrakech.


Discover Mandala Society in Marrakesh – A perfect blend of culture and cuisine offering delightful brunches and cozy ambiance.

After breakfast, we ventured out to Anima Garden (André Heller Garden). Located about 30 kilometers south of Marrakech, the journey itself was an experience, offering glimpses of the Moroccan countryside. As a cultural mediator, I was eager to see how this garden blended art and nature, and it did not disappoint. The garden, created by Austrian multimedia artist André Heller, is a fantasy landscape filled with exotic plants and quirky installations. Nadia was particularly fascinated by the colorful sculptures nestled among the greenery.


Explore Anima Garden, a botanical wonder in Marrakech, where art meets nature amid stunning landscapes and vibrant flora.

The garden was a sensational display of the fusion of art and nature. We strolled along shady paths, between blossom and fragrant wonders, pavilions and sculptures, with breathtaking views of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains. It was truly a magical place of sensuality, wonder, contemplation, joy, healing, and inspiration. The personnel were very friendly, and the cafe inside had a beautiful rooftop that allowed us to have an overhead view of the park.

The magic of Marrakech lies not only in its bustling souks but also in its ability to offer serene escapes that nourish the soul.

Next on our itinerary was Le Jardin Secret, located in the heart of the Medina. Finding it was a bit of an adventure in itself, navigating through the narrow alleys of the market. This historic riad, with foundations over 400 years old, was once owned by a powerful local chief. The garden is divided into two parts: an exotic garden and a traditional Islamic garden. The Islamic garden, with its perfectly symmetrical layout and water features, showcased traditional Moroccan garden design. The exotic garden, on the other hand, featured plants from all over the world.


Explore the serene beauty of Le Jardin Secret in Marrakech, a botanical garden offering lush landscapes, art, and cultural insights in a tranquil setting.

We climbed the tower for panoramic views of Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains in the distance. It was especially gorgeous during sunset. The sound of trickling water created a calm atmosphere that made us forget we were in the middle of a busy city.

After our garden visits, it was time for some retail therapy. We headed to Les Nomades De Marrakech-Best Moroccan Carpets and Rugs store. As someone who appreciates craftsmanship and cultural heritage, I was excited to explore the world of Moroccan carpets. The store was like an Aladdin's cave, filled with carpets from floor to ceiling. The owner was joyful and outgoing and helped us look over hundreds of potential rugs.


Explore exquisite Moroccan carpets and rugs at Les Nomades De Marrakech, where tradition meets artistry in the heart of Marrakesh.

We learned about the different types of carpets, their origins, and the stories they tell. Each carpet is a unique piece of art, reflecting the Berber traditions and the creativity of the weavers. Nadia was particularly drawn to a colorful rug with geometric patterns, while Lukas was more interested in the traditional Beni Ourain carpets. We were very happy with what we bought and it’s the best way of taking home a genuine piece of Marrakech.

For lunch, we chose Le Foundouk, a restaurant deep in the heart of the Medina. The restaurant, set in a traditional building, offered a mix of Moroccan and French cuisine. We dined on the rooftop terrace, enjoying the warm breeze and the panoramic views of the city. The service was excellent, and the food was delicious. I opted for the avocado millefeuille with crab meat, while Lukas chose a selection of Moroccan salads.


Experience exquisite Moroccan-French cuisine at Le Foundouk in Marrakesh's Medina, where vibrant flavors meet elegant ambiance.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Narwama for dinner. This restaurant is known for its festive atmosphere and live traditional show. From the moment we stepped in, we were greeted with exceptional hospitality. The ambiance was mesmerizing, beautifully blending traditional Moroccan decor with a touch of modern elegance. The menu offered a wide variety of choices, catering to all palates, and the recommendations from our waiter were spot on.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine in the heart of Marrakesh's vibrant Medina at Narwama.

We dined on traditional Moroccan dishes while enjoying the music show. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with beauty and cultural immersion. We had the chance to meet Mohssin, who gave us great advice and accompanied us throughout this Moroccan culinary journey. The service was a highlight of our dining experience.

Today’s experiences reminded me of the importance of finding balance in our travels. While the bustling souks and historical sites are essential parts of Marrakech, the city’s gardens offer a much-needed respite. These serene spaces provide an opportunity to reflect and connect with nature, enhancing our overall experience. As a cultural mediator, I always seek to understand the deeper meanings behind the places we visit, and today, I found that Marrakech’s gardens and carpets tell stories of tradition, creativity, and resilience.

As we head into our final day in Marrakech, I am already feeling a sense of nostalgia. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Musée du Parfum and the Dar Si Said Museum, hoping to soak in a little more of Marrakech’s rich heritage before we bid farewell to this magical city. And perhaps, if time allows, we’ll enjoy a final evening at the SKY-BAR, raising a glass to the memories we’ve made.

During our trip, I realized I had forgotten to pack an adapter plug for the Moroccan outlets and an extra memory card for my camera. These small oversights taught me the importance of thorough preparation, even for seasoned travelers. However, they also reminded me that travel is about embracing the unexpected and making the most of every moment.

Marrakech, with its blend of vibrant culture and serene escapes, has captured our hearts. It’s a city that invites you to explore, discover, and connect with its rich heritage. As we prepare to leave, I know that the memories we’ve made here will stay with us for a long time, inspiring us to continue our journey of cultural immersion and understanding.

I also learned that the Marrakech Run 2025 took place today. It is amazing to see the city come together for such events.

Until tomorrow, dear readers, as we explore the final gems of Marrakech!